Reviews

Driving Impression

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Surprisingly sporty when fitted with the stronger engines, the V60 is competent overall, though not as refined as some. Even the Polestar edition isn’t quite a model of high-performance, as promised by its styling.

The base T5 engine delivers admirable thrust, with minimal turbo lag and a sense of serenity. Compared to similar-size engines from German automakers, though, it sounds coarse when underway. At idle speed, thrumming sounds can be heard within the cabin. Steering is well-weighted, and the suspension is soft enough to deliver a relaxed, comfortable ride.

In R-Design models, the T6 engine feels significantly strong, though not much more refined. The suspension is stiffer, and 19-inch tires aren’t as adept at smoothing out minor road flaws. Overall, an R-Design might feel too firm for some tastes, though it rides and handles with a sporty sensibility.

Helped by Ohlins suspension struts, the Polestar is more compliant, as well as more stimulating, without excessive harshness. With 2 extra inches of ground clearance, the Cross Country adds confidence on a trail or when coping with snow, but it’s not ready for serious off-roading.

With its turbo/supercharged engine, the R-Design is EPA-rated at 22/32 mpg City/Highway, or 26 mpg Combined. Picking a Polestar shrinks the rating to 20/27/22 mpg. All versions have a stop/start system.

Walk Around

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Appropriately curved, the V60 is far removed from upright, boxy-profile wagons of the distant past. Essentially, Volvo has built upon the conventional S60 sedan’s shape, adding a sizable dose of utility that integrates nicely into the overall design.

Each V60 version has a look of its own. Base Dynamic models incorporate a moderate amount of chrome. R-Design editions get more racy body details, along with bigger wheels. Among other distinctive styling elements, the Polestar rides on lovely wheels wearing low-profile tires.

Interior Overview

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On the whole, the V60 wagon echoes the attributes of Volvo’s S60 sedan, boasting comfortable front seats, though space can be snug with all seats occupied. Back-seat room is good for a compact, but unexceptional.

Controls are somewhat awkward, with an abundance of buttons, in a cabin that looks dated, even grim. Standard aluminum trim can be replaced by glossy and matte wood surfaces for a more sprightly appearance.

High-quality materials are the rule. Standard nicely-grained, soft-touch leather upholstery is available in several shades, beyond beige and black. Polestar models get synthetic suede with contrasting stitching. Cross Country wagons are offered with thickly grained, saddle-hue leather.

Heated front seats now are standard, with heated back seats optional. Though stretch-out space is limited in back, the rear bench is well padded, with decent head clearance.

Cargo volume is about 20 cubic feet with second-row seatbacks upright, growing to 48 cubic feet with the split-folding rear seatback folded. Those figures match many small crossover models.

Long on buttons but short on features, the infotainment system is outdated and cumbersome. Though the 7.0-inch screen is crisp and bright, the system lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Summary

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Among smaller luxury cars, Volvo’s V60 wagon stands out for its sensible, practical benefits. Few competitors exist anymore. Each V60 is well-equipped for its price, and Volvo offers a broad range of configurations. As expected, prices can get out of hand as options are added.

Driving impressions by Andrew Ganz, The Car Connection. James M. Flammang contributed to this report.